HIGH COAST HIKE
A Guide for First-Time High Coast Hike Participants
Everything you need to know for a great adventure in the High Coast.
5:e -7:e Augusti 2027
Welcome to a three-day adventure through some of Sweden’s most spectacular landscapes. If you’re preparing for your first High Coast Hike, we’ve gathered everything you need to know on this page to help you enjoy a safe and unforgettable experience.
Play the video for a quick overview.
What is High Coast Hike?
High Coast Hike is one of Europe’s most popular hiking adventures, where over three days you’ll experience the highlights of the High Coast World Heritage Site – dramatic coastal mountains, deep forests and sweeping views across the sea.
You carry your own (or borrowed) gear, pitch your tent at shared campsites and share campfires, views and experiences with hikers from all over the world. Buses, guides, food, outdoor workshops and a legendary After-Hike in FriluftsByn – it’s all taken care of.
All you need to do is decide which of the three experiences – The Original, Wanderlust or Wanderlust Light – suits you best. Then simply make your way to FriluftsByn in the High Coast, where the adventure begins and ends.
The Original »
– For Those Who Want the Full Adventure
This is the iconic hike through the High Coast World Heritage Site – a challenging but rewarding route for those who want a little extra when it comes to both spectacular nature and physical challenge.
The hike is challenging and demanding in parts. We hike 10–16 kilometres per day, with steep climbs and descents on trails with varied terrain.
Difficulty: 4/5
Wanderlust »
– For those who want to enjoy the hike at a more relaxed pace
Wanderlust is for those looking for a big adventure at a slightly more relaxed pace. With shorter daily distances, you’ll have more time to enjoy the views, go for a swim and really take in the World Heritage Site – without compromising on the experience.
The hike is rated moderate based on the distances and the time available each day. You’ll still need to prepare your body, though. There are some steep climbs and descents, but fewer than on The Original.
Difficulty: 3/5
Wanderlust Light »
– For those who want to hike with a lighter pack.
Wanderlust Light is perfect for beginners and those hiking with children. We help transport your tent and sleeping bag between campsites, allowing you to hike with a lighter pack – making it easier to keep your energy up, enjoy the adventure and take in everything along the way.
The route still includes varied terrain with some steep climbs and descents, so make sure to prepare your body by getting out for a few hikes before the adventure.
Difficulty: 2/5
Preparations
High Coast Hike makes it easy to head out on a great adventure. But there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Sign up early. This is the iconic hike through the High Coast World Heritage Site, offering a challenging but rewarding route for those who want a little extra when it comes to both spectacular nature and physical challenge.
2. Plan your travel and accommodation. The adventure starts and finishes in FriluftsByn at Skuleberget – the perfect base for your adventure. You’ll find cabins, camping and a relaxed atmosphere before and after the hike. Book your accommodation early and plan how to get here, whether you’re travelling by car, train or bus.
3. Prepare for the hike. Whether you choose The Original, Wanderlust or Wanderlust Light, it’s important to come prepared. Get used to hiking with a loaded backpack and prepare your body with shorter hikes before the adventure. Pack smart – follow the recommended packing list and keep the weight down for a more comfortable hike.
Click through the slideshow for an overview of what happens when you arrive.
Arrival, Welcome Evening, Check-In and Buses to the Start
The adventure starts and finishes in FriluftsByn, at the foot of the iconic Skuleberget in the heart of the High Coast World Heritage Site. Most participants arrive on Wednesday to settle in, check in and pick up their seven included meals and map, pack their backpacks and hang out with other excited hikers. We’ll get everyone ready with an upbeat briefing ahead of the weekend’s adventure – and at Innergården, you’ll find food and a relaxed place to hang out. On Wednesday evening, experts from Naturkompaniet will also be there to help adjust backpacks and answer questions about gear.
Most participants choose to stay in FriluftsByn – either in a cabin or in their own tent. Breakfast is available to buy on Thursday morning. After breakfast, we board the buses that take us to the starting point for each route. Participants hiking The Original take the bus to the West Entrance of Skuleskogen National Park, while Wanderlust heads to Entré Syd. It’s not possible to drive your own car to the start – all participants travel there by bus. Let the adventure begin!
When you arrive in FriluftsByn, head to check-in to register and pick up your map and pre-packed meals. Bring your own snacks, coffee, tea and anything else you’d like along the trail – your personal energy boost for the adventure. You can easily refill your water from fresh streams along the trail.
During the welcome evening we dive into the map and share some smart tips for the hike ahead. It’s a relaxed but upbeat get-together where we talk route, pace, weather strategy and things worth keeping in mind out on the trail. Naturkompaniet’s gear gurus will also be there – ready to help you fine-tune your setup if anything needs adjusting.
But make sure you already know your gear – that everything works and you know how to use it. A great adventure starts with being confident in your setup.
Click through the slideshow for an overview of the hike.
Hiking Through the World Heritage Site
We take the buses together to the start, and once we arrive, everyone sets off at their own pace. Guides are positioned at the front, in the middle and at the back of the group, which often spreads out over several kilometres. This creates a great balance between freedom and support. You hike at your own pace, stop for a swim whenever you feel like it and take a break for food whenever it suits you.
Along the trail, you’ll occasionally pass guides and medical staff who are there to make sure everything runs smoothly and to answer any questions you may have.
Each day ends at our shared campsite, where all participants – whether you’re hiking The Original or Wanderlust – spend the night. When you arrive, it’s important to check in. The check-in point is clearly marked, so it’s easy to find when you reach camp.
How you spend the evenings is entirely up to you. Maybe you retreat to your tent for some quiet time, or join a workshop or talk. Often, it’s a mix of both – some peaceful time in your own tent and relaxed evenings with fellow hikers. The first evening often brings great conversations on the rocks by the sea, while the second campsite offers a magical evening up on the mountain, taking in sweeping views across the World Heritage Site.
Checkpoints are located at the campsite at the end of each day’s stage. It’s important to check in when you arrive – and check out the following morning when you set off on the next stage at your own pace. This helps us keep track of everyone out on the trail, while you still get to enjoy the freedom of hiking at your own pace.
At the campsites you can really settle in and unwind. Sit back, relax, go for a swim or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Maybe you want to join the community around the campfire, or take part in one of the evening workshops or talks. The choice is yours – the evening is all about recharging in your own way.
Our first campsite is beautifully located on a small island – with a soft sandy beach on one side and rocky shores overlooking the sea on the other.
Our second campsite spreads out at the foot of Gyltberget. In the evening, we head up to the summit, where the views stretch for miles across the World Heritage Site.
For those who want to head home with more than just great memories, the evenings also offer plenty of opportunities to learn something new.
At the first campsite, Woolpower hosts a workshop where you’ll learn more about function, materials and how to stay warm and dry out on the trail.
At the second campsite, Naturkompaniet shares some of their best outdoor tips and gear advice in an inspiring talk.
Finish Line & After-Hike
The finish line is – as it should be – at the iconic Skuleberget, the crown of the High Coast World Heritage Site. Some reach the summit early, while others take their time and enjoy a few more breaks along the way. As more and more hikers arrive, cheers and applause fill the air – a spontaneous celebration of every achievement. Here, at the Summit Cabin, the celebrations really begin.
After taking some time to enjoy the views, we hike down together to FriluftsByn. A well-earned shower awaits – and then we meet up in the courtyard for a magical After-Hike with campfires, great food and live music. The perfect ending to an epic adventure.
The finish line is at the top of Skuleberget – the summit of the High Coast World Heritage Site. Up here, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in Sweden. Sit back, take it all in and enjoy something tasty from the Summit Cabin – a well-earned moment to remember.
After-Hike is the grand finale – an evening for everyone. Expect laid-back singalongs, campfires, great burgers and pure hiking euphoria in the FriluftsByn courtyard. This is where we celebrate the adventure together.
Showers are available if you want to freshen up, and of course, all participants can camp for free in FriluftsByn from Saturday to Sunday.
Experience More of the High Coast
With its unique location in the heart of the World Heritage Site, FriluftsByn is the perfect base for exploring the very best of the High Coast. From here, you’re close to hiking, paddling, climbing and some of the region’s top sights – all surrounded by dramatic coastal mountains, deep forests and crystal-clear waters.
So while you’re here, make the most of it and explore a little more. The next adventure starts right outside your tent.
High Coast Kayakcenter »
– Experience the World Heritage Site from the Water
At Norrfjärden, just a few kilometres from FriluftsByn, you’ll find Höga Kusten Kajakcenter. Here, you can take a beginner’s course, head out on your own or join a guided evening paddle along the dramatic coastline of the World Heritage Site.
Via Ferrata »
– Experience the World Heritage Site from Above
On the other side of Skuleberget from FriluftsByn, another world-class adventure awaits – Via Ferrata Höga Kusten. It’s one of Europe’s largest via ferrata facilities and a must for anyone looking for heights and adrenaline. With four different routes – from beginner-friendly to more advanced – there’s a climbing adventure for everyone, regardless of previous experience.
Excursions in the World Heritage Site »
– Road Trips, Boat Trips, Naturkompaniet Outlet and Much More
Just a short distance away, boats depart for Ulvön, a picturesque island in the archipelago. For those who want to explore by car, the beautiful cultural landscape of Nordingrå awaits, with artists’ villages and cafés tucked away between coastal bays.
And if you’re into outdoor gear, Naturkompaniet’s outlet is around 20 minutes away – perfect for picking up quality gear before or after your adventure.
In other words, FriluftsByn isn’t just your basecamp – it’s your gateway to the entire High Coast.
The Details
The High Coast Hike's Original route attracts hundreds of hikers worldwide each year. Come hang with us and soak in the stunning scenery, chill vibes, workshops, and all the rad stuff going down.
Program & Schedule
Most people arrive on Wednesday evening for a briefing and tips before the adventure begins, but you can also check in Thursday morning before the buses leave from the Outdoor Hub.
Check-In
Arrive Wednesday evening between 4:00 PM and 10:00 PM, or Thursday morning between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM.
Buses to the Starting Point
Buses depart from Friluftbsbyn on Thursday morning.
The Original: 8:00 AM
Wanderlust / Wanderlust Light: 8:30 AM
Finish Line
You'll reach Skuleberget's Top Cabin around lunch time on Saturday and be back at Friluftbsyn around 3:00 PM with unforgettable memories.
Then it's time for the After-Hike festivities.
Schedule
Want to know what's happening each day of the adventure? Check out the High Coast Hike Program here: High Coast Hike Program »
Participant Briefing
For a quick overview, take a look at the Participant Briefing here: Participant Briefing »
What's included?
Pre-adventure briefing in the early evening, bus transportation from FriluftsByn, guides along the hike, six outdoor meals, map, seminars with Woolpower and Naturkompaniet, and After Hike. Outdoor Collective T-shirt (valued at 399 SEK), medal at the finnish line and a free camping spot in FriluftsByn from Saturday to Sunday (valued at 290 SEK)
Rules
We've been organizing the High Coast Hike for over 10 years, and we're thrilled about the responsibility we all share in creating a memorable adventure that's also safe and respectful of animals and nature.
- You must check in at FriluftsByn before the adventure begins and upon arrival at each night camp, as well as when leaving the camp in the morning thereafter.
- We camp in communal night camps and at designated sites.
- Guides build fires only at specially designated areas. No other fires are permitted.
- You must not damage or harm natural formations or vegetation. Cutting down or otherwise damaging living or dead trees and bushes is prohibited.
- Flying drones is not permitted in Skuleskogen National Park or at Skuleberget Nature Reserve.
- Dogs accompanying the adventure must be kept on a leash.
Toilets and Shelters
You're allowed to use the toilets located in the national park, at FriluftsByn, and at the top cabin of FriluftsByn. You can also seek shelter in the cabins found in the National Park. However, overnight stays are to be in your own tent.
Littering
We place great importance on leaving the area in better condition than when we arrived. Therefore, it's strictly forbidden to leave litter along the course or at energy depots. Any packaging you bring in must be carried out with you to the finish line. You can dispose of your litter at FriluftsByn after finishing. If any checkpoint officials, other runners, or trail markers observe a runner littering, they will be immediately disqualified.
Safety
You're probably aware that participating in outdoor activities always comes with some risk of injury. However, we've done our utmost to make the High Coast Hike as safe as possible.
When you sign up for the High Coast Hike, you acknowledge that you're participating at your own risk, and that the High Coast Hike, FriluftsByn, and High Coast Resort AB do not compensate for personal injuries or equipment damage resulting from participation in the High Coast Hike.
The High Coast Hike requires good judgment on your part. We do not recommend participation for individuals with back, knee, or heart problems.
Consider your personal health before joining the hike, and weigh the options between The Original, Wanderlust, and Wanderlust Light. Come prepared.
We also recommend at least 8 hours of rest before driving after completing the hike. Therefore, we offer free camping spots in FriluftsByn from Saturday to Sunday.
First Aid
For your safety, we have medical personnel stationed along the hike and at the night camps. They will assist you if you encounter any problems. The most common issues are blisters, and they'll use your own equipment to help. You'll also receive contact information for the safety supervisor before setting out. We always inform emergency services about the High Coast Hike, and in case of actual injuries, dial 112.
Take no unnecessary risks.
Seriously, take no unnecessary risks. Slåttdalsberget, the viewpoint at Slåttdalsskrevan, and Skuleberget are areas with higher risk due to steep cliffs. Don't get too close to the edges, as a heavy backpack and potentially slippery rocks don't mix well. Maintain a reasonable distance from ledges. The hike follows well-marked trails, and sticking to them increases safety. Drink plenty of water, rest when tired, and eat when hungry. Don't cook inside the tent.
Mobile Phone
You'll have coverage for most of the High Coast Hike, but not everywhere. Make sure to bring a charger, as there won't be opportunities to charge your phone during the hike.
Equipment
You don't need the latest gear to participate in the High Coast Hike, but you do need clothing, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad appropriate for the season, as well as sturdy boots for your safety and that of other hikers.
We hope this information doesn't scare you, but rather encourages you to avoid unnecessary risks during the High Coast Hike. So, it's time to get ready!
If I have to interrupt the hike
Our goal is to provide you with an adventure filled with fantastic experiences. That's why we've put together three options suitable for everyone from experienced hikers to curious beginners - The Original, Wanderlust, and Wanderlust Light.
If you prepare your body and hike with a backpack before the High Coast Hike, chances are it'll go great.
If you're on The Original and feel discomfort in your back or knees - or simply feel like taking a shorter route - there are shortcuts available on the second day of the adventure.
If you choose Wanderlust and after the first day feel like hiking a longer distance, you can join "discovery rounds" where you'll tag along with hikers on The Original.
If you hike Wanderlust Light, your tent and sleeping bag will be transported from FriluftsByn to the various night camps and back again. But we also offer participants in Wanderlust and The Original the opportunity to have some equipment transported to FriluftsByn on the final day of the adventure to facilitate the ascent of Skuleberget.
There are guides along the adventure who will provide tips if you encounter challenges.
In short - we do everything to ensure you have a wonderful adventure.
If you still need to withdraw
Sometimes someone twists an ankle, experiences knee or back pain, or encounters another issue that leads them to want to withdraw. In that case, we make sure to direct you to one of our pick-up points from where you'll be transported back to FriluftsByn.
When withdrawing:
- You must always speak to one of the guides or call the secretariat number before withdrawing.
- As you can understand, it's probably not possible to pick you up exactly where you are, so we'll direct you to a pick-up point from where we'll then take you back to FriluftsByn. We'll go through this during the pre-adventure briefing.
- You can camp free of charge in FriluftsByn throughout the adventure and from Saturday to Sunday. There are also communal rooms where you can hang out.
- Even if you withdraw, we still think you should try to make it to the finish line at the top of Skuleberget and join the After-Hike. It's often tough to "quit," and a little celebration usually helps.
Cancelations
Just like a ticket to a concert or a sports event, your registration is non-refundable. However, if you are a swedish resident you can opt for insurance with Startklar through Folksam for 150 SEK, which will refund your money if anything should happen. You can find more information here: www.startklar.nu.
For our international guset we recomend that you resarch if your country of residents offers the same type of incurance policy.
If not you can always offer someone to purchase your ticket in the participant group on Facebook: High Coast Hikers >>
HIGH COAST HIKE
Choose your adventure!
The High Coast Hike is one of Europe’s most popular hiking adventures, bringing together hikers from all over the world. Experience three days of spectacular nature, memorable moments, and great company. Choose the adventure that suits you best.
The Original »
The Original adventure that takes us to some of the absolute highlights of the World Heritage High Coast. We hike between 10 - 16 km per day.
Wanderlust »
If you want to hike shorter distances and take more breaks while still experiencing magnificent nature. Approximately 10 km of hiking per day.
Wanderlust Light »
With lighter packing, it becomes easier to enjoy the hike. We transport your tent and sleeping bag — giving you more room for the experience.
WHICH ADVENTURE SUITS YOU BEST?
Many come alone and return year after year for the pleasant camaraderie. Others bring friends, family, or partners and combine time together with participating in the community. Here, we have gathered some tips just for you.
First time? Here are some tips >>
COME BY YOURSELF, MEET NEW FRIENDS >>
Many come alone, but meet new hiking friends along the way.
COME BY YOURSELF, MEET NEW FRIENDS >>
Many come alone, but meet new hiking friends along the way.
BRING YOUR FRIENDS>>
This is the adventure you always talked about that you should do. Here are our best tips!
BRING YOUR FRIENDS>>
This is the adventure you always talked about that you should do. Here are our best tips!
CONVINCE YOUR PARTNER >>
You are going to have a really great time. But let us help you with a few tips along the way.
CONVINCE YOUR PARTNER >>
You are going to have a really great time. But let us help you with a few tips along the way.
ADVENTURE WITH KIDS >>
Bring your kids along for the adventure you all will remember for a lifetime. Here are our best tips for you.
ADVENTURE WITH KIDS >>
Bring your kids along for the adventure you all will remember for a lifetime. Here are our best tips for you.